Fans of the Chennai Super Kings (CSK) are concerned after a video clip emerged which showed MS Dhoni limping his way to the dressing room following a practice session. This clip has gone viral and re-sparked concerns about his fitness ahead of IPL 2026.
Dhoni has been suffering from knee problems since IPL 2023 and underwent knee surgery after leading CSK to a fifth IPL title in 2023. This knee problem is still plaguing him and has hampered his batting. He is not capable of running quick singles and doubles and is only able to bat for a limited time period.
Dhoni's Knee Issue is Still a Worry
CSK head coach Stephen Fleming was questioned regarding Dhoni's fitness earlier, to which he responded:
During IPL 2025, Fleming said:
"His body is… his knees aren't what they used to be. And he's moving okay, but there's still an attrition aspect to it. He can't bat ten overs running full stick. So, he will gauge on the day what he can give us. If the game is in the balance like today, he will go a little bit earlier, and he backs other players when other opportunities are up. So, he's balancing that."
Watch the video here:
This is proof that Dhoni is adjusting his batting according to his fitness level and the match situations.
Also Read | RR SWOT IPL 2026: Strengths, Weaknesses & Key Concerns
CSK Face Selection Calls, Ellis Ruled Out
With the addition of Sanju Samson to the CSK squad in IPL 2026 there is a lot of debate regarding MS Dhoni's role in the side. Samson is a wicketkeeper, so should Dhoni have a problem with his knee he could keep the gloves, and Dhoni could be played as an impact player.
A clearer picture of Dhoni's role will be obtained only after CSK's first fixture in the season. CSK face Rajasthan Royals in their opening fixture in the IPL 2026 on March 30, followed by games against Punjab Kings, Royal Challengers Bengaluru and Delhi Capitals on the 3rd, 5th and 11th of April, respectively.
Meanwhile, CSK have faced their first set back for IPL 2026 as fast bowler Nathan Ellis has been ruled out with a hamstring injury. Ellis was bought for 2 Crores in the IPL 2025 mega auction and only played one game last season.
He previously played 16 matches for Punjab Kings in IPL 2021 and 2024. Currently, the whole attention is on MS Dhoni and whether he can still contribute enough to make a positive impact.
Contact to : xlf550402@gmail.com
Copyright © boyuanhulian 2020 - 2023. All Right Reserved.